Congratulations! You're about to become a homeowner. The "closing" is when the finalized loan documents are signed, and the mortgage funds are disbursed.

Here are some things you can do ahead of time to ensure a successful closing:

• Fulfill any conditions specified by the Underwriter at the time of your loan approval.
• Obtain homeowner's insurance. This required insurance protects you against loss or damage due to theft, fire, or certain weather-related hazards. In some areas, it may also be necessary to obtain flood insurance.
• Resolve title questions. If your title search turned up other liens on the property, these will need to be resolved before closing can occur.
• Conduct a final walk-through of the home to ensure any agreed upon repairs have been completed by the seller.
• Review the final estimates of your closing costs.
• Prepare a certified check or money order - not a personal check - to cover your down payment and closing costs.
• Make sure you can meet the conditions of your mortgage commitment.

At the closing, you'll receive and review some very important documents. This is not the time to be shy! If you have questions about the paperwork, just ask. And if you spot an error, say so - and don't sign the document until the issue is resolved.

Here are some documents you'll receive or review at your closing:

• HUD-1 Final Settlement Statement
  This is an itemization of all funds and costs paid by the buyer and seller either at or prior to closing. If you ask, you have a right to review the HUD-1 a day in advance of closing.
  
• Truth-In-Lending (TIL) Disclosure
  This document provides important information about your loan. It includes the APR, finance charge, amount financed, total of payments, and payment schedule.
  
• Deed of Trust or Mortgage
  This document states that Chase receives a lien on your property as security for your loan.
  
• The Note
  The note is your binding legal agreement to make payments to Chase according to the terms of your mortgage.
  
• The Keys
  The symbol of your new home ownership. Congratulations!
  

To review mortgage terms and definitions, see our Mortgage Glossary.